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Castle of Modave

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Castle of Modave perched on a 60-meter high limestone cliff overlooking the Hoyoux river valley is a masterpiece of 17th-century classical architecture. Built on the remains of a 13th-century fortress it reached its architectural peak under the ownership of Count Jean-Gaspard-Ferdinand de Marchin. The interior is famous for its exceptional ceiling stuccos created by the renowned artist Jan-Christian Hansche which depict mythological and historical scenes. Historically the castle is famous for its hydraulic machine engineered by Rennequin Sualem in 1667 which raised water from the river to the castle's height. This innovative system was so efficient that it served as the direct inspiration for the Machine de Marly at the Palace of Versailles. Today the castle is a protected national monument and houses an extensive collection of period furniture and fine tapestries. Its formal gardens and terraces offer panoramic views of the 450-hectare nature reserve that surrounds the estate.

Location: Belgium
Top sights: Château de Roiseux · Château Le Facqueval · Château-ferme de Barse
Nearby: Huy (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	2	5	9	12	16	18	18	14	10	5	2
Rain mm	81	72	67	48	70	72	77	87	60	66	75	87

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Castle of Modave is perched on a rocky outcrop above the Hoyoux valley and can usually be visited from April to October. Interiors are accessible through guided tours, while exterior areas are partly freely walkable.

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Typical hours

Guided tours usually occur at set times, often at 11 AM, 2 PM and 4 PM. The exterior areas are accessible during the castle park's open hours - typically from 10 AM to 5 PM.

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Photography

Photography is allowed outdoors and from the rocky outcrop, with striking views over the valley. Indoors, a general photography ban is in place to protect the historic furnishings.

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Time needed

The guided tour of the castle lasts about 45 minutes, plus time for exploring the exterior. In total, allow about 1.5 hours for the visit, including viewpoints.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a hike in the Hoyoux valley, offering great nature trails. The gardens of the Castle of Modave (separate POI) are also a short walk away and perfectly complement the trip.

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Getting there

The Castle of Modave is reachable by car via the N63; parking is available at the castle. Buses from Huy and Modave stop at 'Modave Château' stop, from where a short climb leads to the castle.

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Insider tip

Book the guided tour online in advance as places are limited and demand is high. Wear sturdy footwear for the climb and for a walk along the cliff edge.

Geography

Coordinates

50.47030, 5.27110

Facts

The castle stands on a rocky outcrop 60 meters above the Hoyoux river bed.
Count de Marchin began the extensive renovation of the medieval ruins in 1658.
The hydraulic machine built in 1667 was a technological marvel of its time.
Jan-Christian Hansche's stucco ceilings are among the finest examples in Europe.
The castle's technology inspired King Louis XIV to build the Machine de Marly.
It was designated a major heritage site of Wallonia for its artistic and historical value.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Castle of Modave (gardens)<1 km · NEExplore →

Modave Castle4 km · SEExplore →

Citadel of Huy6 km · NWExplore →

Tihange Nuclear Power Plant7 km · NExplore →

Abbey of Flône8 km · NExplore →

Castle of Jehay12 km · NEExplore →

Andenne13 km · WExplore →

Abbey of Grandpré17 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Castle of Modave (10)

Château de Roiseux🏰 castle

Fortified building with a massive quadrangular tower, probably 16th century.

Château Le Facqueval🏰 castle

Castle in the municipality of Modave.

🌐 facqueval.be

Château-ferme de Barse🏰 castle

Enclosed quadrangular farmstead with living and farm buildings.

Oppidum

Celtic and Carolingian fortification on a hill.

Point de vue sur la Vyle et le Lapiaz

Viewpoint overlooking the Vyle valley and the Lapiaz karst rock.

Point de vue sur la Vyle

Viewpoint overlooking the Vyle river valley.

Point de vue sur Pont-de-Bonne

Viewpoint overlooking the village of Pont-de-Bonne.

Église Notre-Dame

Church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Pierre à la sorcière

Rock formation associated with a local witch legend.

Réserve Naturelle du Triffoy

Nature reserve with distinctive flora and fauna.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How many rooms can be visited in Modave Castle?

Visitors can see about 20 magnificently furnished rooms.

Is the castle open year-round?

Usually open from April to October, as well as during a special Christmas exhibition.

What is the Modave hydraulic wheel?

It was a historical machine to supply the castle with water, a precursor to the machine of Marly.

Does the castle offer audio guides?

Yes, audio guides are often included in the entry fee and available in several languages.

Is there parking at the castle?

Yes, there is a large, free parking lot right in front of the castle grounds.

Castle of Modave: where is it located?

Castle of Modave is located in Belgium.

Castle of Modave: what is there to see?

Highlights include Château de Roiseux, Château Le Facqueval, Château-ferme de Barse.

Castle of Modave: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Castle of Modave: why is it worth visiting?

The Castle of Modave perched on a 60-meter high limestone cliff overlooking the Hoyoux river valley is a masterpiece of 17th-century classical architecture.

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